August 2011

08/30/2011

There’s just something special about a little black dress. Like a trusted friend, its presence provides comfort and warmth. Whether donned for an elegant affair or needed for the funeral of a loved one, this mainstay of every woman’s wardrobe brings special meaning to life’s precious moments. Without it, we simply would be lost.

This month’s Jen’s Jewels Susan McBride touches upon this very topic in her sensational new release LITTLE BLACK DRESS. It’s the unforgettable story of one family’s attachment to a magical black dress that changes their lives forever. Written from two points of view spanning the past and the present, Susan is indeed one of the brightest stars in women’s fiction today.

As part of this interview, Harper Collins has generously donated five copies for you, my favorite readers, to try to win. So, don’t forget to look for the trivia question at the end of the column. And, as always, thanks for making Jen’s Jewels a part of your reading adventure.

08/26/2011

The latest project from the powerhouse team of Fred DeVito and Elisabeth Halfpapp is a combination strength and flexibility DVD incorporating cardio into five 10-minute workouts. In each of the segments, combined movements target certain areas for maximum results. Best-known as the trainers to such stars as Cameron Diaz and Vanessa Hudgens, this husband and wife team uses their popular fat-burning techniques to bring ultimate results to the average American.

To enhance the overall experience, the trainers alternate leading the work-outs. Alternative exercises are offered for the novice; however, it is difficult to see the demonstrator during some modules. In terms of intensity, the Power Sweat segment is by far the most challenging. Included in the DVD is a glimpse of the Xtend Barre Lean & Chiseled DVD by Kristi Yamaguchi as well as informational tidbits about the Core program and bios of the instructors. Overall, if you are looking for a quick, high-intensity work-out for chiseled results, I highly recommend this video.

08/14/2011

Sometimes life’s biggest disappointments ironically turn out to be blessings in disguise. Whether it’s not getting accepted into the college of your dreams or perhaps losing your one true love to a best friend, it feels as if the pain will never go away. And, just when you think you’ve hit rock bottom, the unexpected happens and you’re back on top. The old adage rings true…tomorrow will be a better day.

This month’s Jen’s Jewels Allie Larkin touches upon this very topic of hope and redemption in her debut novel STAY. It’s the story of Savannah “Van” Leone who winds up broken-hearted when the man of her dreams walks down the aisle and marries her best friend. To help soothe the pain, Van adopts an adorable German shepherd puppy who manages to turn her life upside down.

As part of this interview, Penguin Books has donated five copies for you, my favorite wins, to try to win. So, don’t forget to look for the trivia question at the end of the column! And, thanks for making Jen’s Jewels a part of your summertime reading pleasure.